Residents and staff at a supported housing service for young people in Weston were visited by local MP John Penrose this Starts At Home Day
Mr Penrose, the Member of Parliament for Weston-super-Mare, visited Sanctuary Supported Living’s Weston Foyer to learn more about the model of support it offers, as well as the National Housing Federation’s Starts At Home campaign.
Run annually, the focus this year is to highlight the invaluable work done in the supported housing sector, and the effect it has on residents.
Mr Penrose spoke with residents to learn about their experiences, and how the personalised support they receive sees staff work with them to help develop the skills they need to live independently.
In addition to meeting with residents, the MP learnt more about Weston Foyer’s involvement in the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust’s Get on Track project, which helped the young adults to pursue their ambitions as well as improve their confidence, resilience and self-esteem.
Sanctuary Supported Living head of service David Pepper said: “It meant so much to us to show Mr Penrose the importance of supported housing at services like the Foyer, so we’re very grateful he was able to take the time to come for a visit.
“Our residents greatly enjoyed the chance to meet their MP and talk about their experiences.”
Mr Penrose commented: “Many local residents never come across Weston Foyer, but it’s been doing brilliant, essential work in the heart of our town for decades.
“They’ve helped a generation of potentially homeless young Westonians find safe, stable places to live and equipped them to live independent lives. I felt privileged to meet the current group of residents and the dedicated staff who help them, and to hear their stories first hand.”